Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Mumbai: Who Is the Right Candidate?

What Is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. It is one of the most effective procedures for achieving a flatter, firmer, and more toned midsection, particularly for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or age-related changes.

In Mumbai, abdominoplasty is increasingly sought after by men and women who struggle with a protruding abdomen despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Prasanna Somvanshi, a board-certified plastic surgeon with an MCh from JJ Hospital, performs abdominoplasty at accredited hospitals across Mumbai, including SevenHills Hospital, HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, NH SRCC, Sushrusha Hospital, MRR Hospital, and Surya Hospital.

Full Tummy Tuck vs Mini Tummy Tuck

Full Abdominoplasty

A full tummy tuck is suitable for patients with significant excess skin and muscle laxity across the entire abdomen. The procedure involves:

• A hip-to-hip incision placed low, typically within the bikini line
• Separation of the skin from the abdominal wall up to the ribcage
• Tightening (plication) of the separated rectus abdominis muscles (diastasis recti repair)
• Removal of excess skin and fat
• Repositioning of the belly button (umbilicoplasty)

Full abdominoplasty provides dramatic results for patients with significant tissue laxity, particularly women after multiple pregnancies.

Mini Abdominoplasty

A mini tummy tuck targets only the area below the belly button. It involves a shorter incision, no belly button repositioning, and a more limited skin and fat removal. This option is ideal for patients with mild to moderate skin excess confined to the lower abdomen.

During your consultation, Dr. Prasanna Somvanshi will evaluate your anatomy and recommend the most appropriate approach for your specific situation.

Who Is the Right Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for abdominoplasty if you:

• Have excess, sagging abdominal skin that does not respond to exercise
• Have separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) – common after pregnancy
• Are at a stable weight and not planning significant weight loss
• Women who have completed their families (future pregnancy can reverse results)
• Are in good overall health without conditions that impair healing
• Are non-smokers or willing to quit smoking well before and after surgery
• Have realistic expectations about the outcomes

It is important to note that abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss. Patients should be at or near their target weight before considering the procedure.

The Procedure

Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes 2 to 4 hours. Dr. Somvanshi begins with the planned incision, then carefully separates the skin from the underlying muscle. The abdominal muscles are tightened with permanent sutures to create a firmer core. Excess skin and fat are removed, the remaining skin is redraped, and the incision is closed in layers to minimise scarring. Surgical drains are usually placed for a few days to prevent fluid accumulation.

Recovery After Abdominoplasty

Recovery requires patience and adherence to post-operative instructions:

• Week 1 – Patients walk in a slightly bent position to reduce tension on the incision. Drains are typically removed within 5-7 days. Rest is essential.
• Week 2-3 – Gradual return to light daily activities. An abdominal binder is worn for support.
• Week 4-6 – Most patients return to desk work. Light walking is encouraged.
• Week 8-12 – Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting can gradually resume.
• Month 6-12 – Scars continue to mature and fade. Final results are typically visible by 6-12 months.

Combining Abdominoplasty with Liposuction

Many patients benefit from combining a tummy tuck with liposuction of the flanks (love handles) or other areas to achieve a more comprehensive body contouring result. Dr. Prasanna Somvanshi carefully evaluates whether combining procedures is safe and beneficial for each individual patient. When performed together, this approach can produce a dramatically improved body silhouette in a single surgical session.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are bothered by a protruding abdomen, loose skin, or separated muscles that exercise alone cannot fix, a tummy tuck may be the right solution. Dr. Prasanna Somvanshi offers detailed consultations at his practice locations across Mumbai to help you understand your options and plan your journey to a firmer, more confident you. Contact his clinic today to get started.